UCSB vs UCSD vs NEU International Student

The UC’s only take Junior level transfers so you would need to spend 2 years at any College if you are looking to transfer to a higher level UC.

If another UC is not your target, then as @thumper1 stated a Sophomore level transfer will have their HS record evaluated for transfer.

A Gap year is a good idea if you are not happy with your current acceptances.